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Tasmanian Anglican

July 2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

St Alban's - or St James' New Town?

 

 

In 1916 this picture appeared in the Hobart Mercury announcing the new Anglican church to be built in New Town. The picture is an artist's impression of how the church would look when it was finished.

To our 21st century minds there seems to be some confusion about the name of the new church, as The Mercury account names it 'St Alban's'. It is well documented however, that St James' was built after the style of and named for St James' Church in Montreal, Canada. To this date, the records have not revealed any explanation about the reference to St Alban as patron saint.

First-class

The early planners were also locked in much debate about the location of the new church. The Diocesan Church newspaper revealed the following regarding the decision to build near the corner of Main Road and Augusta Road:

'If a church were built here it would not do to be a second-rater. Some call that part of the city the 'Toorak of Hobart'. If the people living around are to be catered for the church would need to be an up-to-date one, and its rector a first-class man.'

Celebrate St James' Day

St James' is in its 87th year and has served the 'people living around' both pastorally and spiritually over those years. The parish of St James and St Andrew is planning to celebrate St James' Day on Sunday 27th July with a service of Praise and Thanksgiving, to be followed by a Chicken and Wine Supper. Leading the music will be the Legato Youth Choir, and the Reverend James Collins will preach.

Past and present members and friends of St James' are warmly invited to attend. It would be appreciated if your RSVP could be made to Anne Davis on 6243 0683. This occasion of celebration will also mark the resumed use by the Parish of the newly refurbished parish hall.